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Qualstar RLS-8350 Installation And Operation Manual

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RLS-8350/85XX Series

Tape Library

Installation and Operation
Manual
511000 Rev. F

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Summary of Contents for Qualstar RLS-8350

  • Page 1: Tape Library

    RLS-8350/85XX Series Tape Library Installation and Operation Manual 511000 Rev. F...

  • Page 2: Copyright Notice

    This manual was revised to correspond with the firmware version indicated below. Do not use this manual with prior versions of the firmware. Check with Qualstar Technical Support about use of this manual with older or newer firmware.

  • Page 3: Electromagnetic Compatibility

    Qualstar products are covered by one or more of the following U.S. patents: 6,163,139 and 6,560,061. Other patents pending. Qualstar equipment is manufactured from new parts, or new and used parts. In some cases, Qualstar equipment may not be new and may have been previously installed.
  • Page 4 European Directive. The effectivity date for compliance is July 1, 2006, at which time Qualstar will certify that its Tape Library products are compliant with the RoHS standard. With the exception of Lead Based Solder, Qualstar will certify that its products are free of all other substances listed in the Directive.
  • Page 5 Until such time as Qualstar replaces lead based solder with lead free solder, effected subassemblies must be disposed of appropriately. QUALSTAR CORPORATION 3990-B Heritage Oak Court Simi Valley CA 93063...

  • Page 6: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents Introduction ........................1-1     Who Should Read This Manual ................... 1-1     Important Safety Information ..................1-2     Lithium Battery ......................1-3     Product Description ....................2-1     General Description ...................... 2-1  ...
  • Page 7 5.1.2 Ventilation ......................5-1     5.1.3 AC Power Requirements ..................5-1     Rack Mounting ......................5-1     5.2.1 Cautions ......................... 5-2     5.2.2 Preparing the Library for Rack Mount Installation ........... 5-2     5.2.3 Rack Mounting the Library .................. 5-2  ...
  • Page 8 Introduction ........................8-1     8.1.1 Element Addresses ....................8-1     8.1.2 Default Element Addresses .................. 8-2     8.1.3 Inventory Validation ..................... 8-4     Logical Libraries ......................8-4     Sequential Operations ....................8-5     Resource Inventory ....................... 8-5  ...
  • Page 9 Replacing the Air Filter ..................12-3     12.3.1 Replacing an Air Filter in a RLS-85XX library ..........12-3     12.3.2 Replacing an Air Filter in a RLS-8350 library ..........12-4     12.4 Storage Matrices ..................... 12-4     12.5 Cartridges ........................

  • Page 10: Introduction

    Introduction Who Should Read This Manual This manual covers the Qualstar RLS-8350/85XX Series tape library systems. The common product reference is RLS or library. Where model differences require separate treatment exceptions are noted specifically. For clarity and compliance with the SCSI specification, the library control interface of the RLS is defined as a “Medium-changer”...

  • Page 11: Important Safety Information

    All of the operating instructions and maintenance procedures in Qualstar manuals must be followed to prevent personal injury or damage to the equipment. In the interests of safety, there are two kinds of warnings used in Qualstar documents, as shown below.

  • Page 12: Lithium Battery

    NOTE SPECIAL ATTENTION to explanatory statements found in a NOTE paragraph will help you avoid mistakes and/or save time. NOTICE A NOTICE box contains additional important information not covered by the other three types of special text: DANGER, CAUTION, or NOTE. Lithium Battery Please observe the following when repairing the unit.

  • Page 13: Product Description

    The RLS Series is a high density, automated rack-mountable tape library. The RLS- 85XX libraries are 10 rack-units tall (10U = 17.50-inches) while the RLS-8350 models are 6 rack-units tall (6U = 10.50-inches). There are presently four models that utilize LTO tape technology.

  • Page 14: Optional Features Available

    N+1, hot-swappable power supply modules • FastPass™ elevator expansion option, which allows up to four RLS-85XX libraries to be interconnected or a single RLS-8350 may be connected to an RLS-8560 or RLS-85120 library. • Right side Storage Matrix – adds 60 slots, or 54 if the optional I/O port is also added for the RLS-85XX models.

  • Page 15: Models

    FastPass Elevator Expansion option Optional Optional Optional Optional Includes right side Storage Matrix without I/O port Includes right side Storage Matrix with I/O port Subtracts six data slots Table 2-1 RLS-8350/85XX Models, Features and Options Product Description 511000 Rev. F...

  • Page 16: Model Identification

    Model Identification Series Identifier Maximum Number of Drives Number of Cartridges in Magazines RLS-00000 Figure 2-1 Model Number Identification Scheme This manual applies to all models. The installation and operation of the various models is virtually identical. Differences among the models are noted where required. Major Features 2.6.1 Cabinet...
  • Page 17 Control Panel Left Side Optional I/O Port Right Side I/O Port Left Side Optional Storage Matrix Right Side Storage Matrix Key Locks Figure 2-2 RLS-85XX Front Panel Details 2.6.2.1 Control Panel The Control Panel is a color LCD with LED backlight and touch screen overlay. The operator may use the Control Panel menus to configure and operate the RLS and monitor its status.
  • Page 18 Figure 2-3 I/O Port Extended 2.6.2.3 Security The storage matrix must be secured with a key operated lock for the library to operate. 2.6.2.4 Power Switch and Indicator The library’s power status is indicated by a blue LED Power Indicator button on the front of the library that illuminates when the power is applied.

  • Page 19: Rear Panel Components

    PSM. A green "Power Good" LED indicates that a PSM is operating properly. A failed PSM causes an alarm condition. All PSMs supply regulated 24-volts DC to the RLS-8350/85XX. The unit is powered from AC mains of 100- to 240-volts, 50 or 60 Hertz.

  • Page 20: Medium-Changer Components

    Each RLS model utilizes a left and right fixed matrix of storage slots. The RLS-85XX models contains up to 60 cartridges on the right side and 54 on the left. The RLS-8350 contains up to 28 cartridges on the right side and 22 on the left. The storage matrices may be removed from the unit for bulk loading or removal of cartridges.
  • Page 21 2.6.4.2 Tape Drives The RLS-85XX Series library accommodates up to five tape drives while the RLS-8350 contains a maximum of three tape drives. The drives are housed in plug-in drive carriers that may be installed or removed while the other drives within the unit are operating.
  • Page 22 19-inch rack enabling the total configuration to include up to 20 tape drives and a maximum of 480 tape cartridges. Each RLS-8350 library can be expanded by adding one RLS-8560 or RLS-85120 below it, enabling the total configuration to support up to eight tape drives and up to 170 tape cartridges.

  • Page 23: Barcode Labels

    I/O Port( 2.6.5 arcode Labels Pre-printed barcode labels, whic h are both human and machine-readable, are available from a number of sources including Qualstar. Barcode labels must c onform to ANSI/AIM BCI-1995, Uniform Symbology Specification Code 39. Please refer to PIN-040 www.qualstar.com...

  • Page 24: Adi (Automation/Drive Interface)

    By default, the RLS expects no modulu s 43 chec k characters at the end of each label. All of the labels within the RLS must match the check character configuration: all without a check character. ADI (Automation/Drive Interface) This RLS Series library has the simplified ADI (Automation/Drive Interface) interface, which eliminates the separate SCSI or Fibre Channel interface to the robotic Medium Changer.

  • Page 25: Manual Operation

    gets cartridges to be placed in the sequential drive. The output set is where those cartridges are returned after the drive has ejected them. Cartridge storage locations assigned to sequential operations are not included in the list of resources reported to host computers. Empty slots in a Sequential, Recycle or Dual Bin drive’s storage location set will not adversely affect operation.
  • Page 26 are dedicated to sequen tial operation (sequential, recycle or dual bin) only one tape drive is allowed to be assigned to each library partition. The RLS can have multiple physical partitions, which allows separate hosts and thus separate host applications to have fully separate sub-libraries under their e xclusive control.

  • Page 27: Specifications

    Specifications Note that all specifications are subject to change without notice. Dimensions Figure 3-1 RLS-8350 External Dimensions Specifications 511000 Rev. F...
  • Page 28 35 .32 89 7.2 . 8 4 2 1 . 4 1 . 6 0 4 0 . 5 33 .73 1 1 . 4 4 85 6.7 2 9 0 . 5 1 9 . 0 0 4 8 2 . 7 Tape Drive 1 7 .

  • Page 29: Weight

    CE requirement EN61000-3-2. MODEL TWO DRIVES INSTALLED THREE DRIVES INSTALLED IDLE PEAK IDLE PEAK RLS-8350 44 watts 126 watts 56 watts 153 watts 150 BTUs/hr 430 BTUs/hr 191 BTUs/hr 523 BTUs/hr Table 3-3 RLS-8350 Power Consumption Specifications 511000 Rev. F...

  • Page 30: Power Source Disturbances

    MODEL TWO DRIVES INSTALLED FIVE DRIVES INSTALLED IDLE PEAK IDLE PEAK RLS-85XX 44 watts 126 watts 80 watts 207 watts 150 BTUs/hr 430 BTUs/hr 274 BTUs/hr 707 BTUs/hr Table 3-4 RLS-85XX Power Consumption Power consumption varies with the number of tape drives installed and the particular operation being performed.

  • Page 31: Power Cord

    Fuse Fuse Holder flush with AC power receptacle Fuse Holder Figure 3-3 Fuse Holder on rear of Library Whenever you pull out the fuse holder and push it back in order to replace or check the fuse, be sure to push it to the point where the AC power receptacle and the fuse holder are flush with each other.

  • Page 32: Acoustical Noise

    NOTE Rapid changes in temperature that produce condensation must never be allowed since the condensed liquid may contaminate bearing lubricants and possibly shorten the expected Mean Time Between Failures. Acoustical Noise Overall noise level at one meter from the front of the RLS, shall not exceed: •...

  • Page 33: Unpacking

    Unpacking This chapter contains unpacking instructions for the RLS. (Refer to Chapter 13 for instructions on repacking the RLS for shipping.) DANGER DEPENDING UPON THE MODEL, THE RLS WEIGHS UP TO 174 POUNDS (79 Kg), INCLUDING STORAGE MATRICES AND TAPE DRIVES. IMPROPER LIFTING TECHNIQUES CAN RESULT IN BACK INJURY AND/OR EQUIPMENT DAMAGE.
  • Page 34 NOTE Before unpacking the unit, check the shipping container for damage, and report all shipping damage to the carrier before opening the carton. Refer to Figure 4-1 With the help of an assistant, follow the instructions below. Open the top of the carton. Remove the material (this manual, line cord, rack mounting kit and other accessories) from inside the foam that is on top of the library.
  • Page 35 Shipping Carton Foam Rear Hand Hold Front Hand Holds Remove these 2 thumbscrews Pallet Remove these 2 thumbscrews Figure 4-1 Unpacking the RLS (RLS-85120 shown) Unpacking 511000 Rev. F...

  • Page 36: Installation

    Installation Installation Considerations When selecting a location for the RLS, be sure to consider the unit weight and provide a stable operating location. These tape libraries are not intended for use in mobile applications. They were designed for use in an office environment. Also remember to provide sufficient free space around the unit to allow for loading/unloading media/drives, establishing cable connections, and airflow considerations.

  • Page 37: Cautions

    5.2.1 Cautions Check the following points before rack mounting the RLS. • When installing the library, keep cables and other obstructions away from the area around the fans on the rear of the library and the ventilation slots on the front of the library.
  • Page 38 Figure 5-1 1 U Division on a Rack Post Position a rack rail assembly between the front and rear rack posts and use a tape measure to determine how far the brackets need to be moved so that the mounting holes of the brackets will be in contact with the inside edge of the rack posts.
  • Page 39 Figure 5-4. Note that the washers have a specially designed shoulder and can only be acquired from Qualstar. If new washers are required please contact technical support and request P/N 510703-01-0.
  • Page 40 CAUTION Do not attempt to replace the washers with any other washer that has not been provided by Qualstar. Rear view of Qualstar washer (P/N 510703-01-0) showing the shoulder. Figure 5-4 Screws and Washers securing a Rack Rail Assembly to the Rack Posts Using a 11/32”...
  • Page 41 4 Cage Nut Location Options Figure 5-5 Cage Nuts location options in a Rack Post Repeat the same procedure for the right front rack post making sure that the cage nut is at the same height as the left side. 5.2.3.4 Mounting the Library in the Rack DANGER...
  • Page 42 Rear Front Hand Hold Hand Holds Figure 5-6 Library being inserted into the Rack (RLS-85XX shown) The front hand holds must be removed from the library before it can be slid all the way back into the rack. Use a Number 2 Phillips screwdriver to remove the two screws that secure the hand holds to the left and right sides of the RLS.
  • Page 43 Use a Number 2 Phillips screwdriver to install the two screws (one on each side) that secure the library to the front rack posts. For RLS-8350 and 85120 libraries follow the procedure described in Section 5.7.5 to reinstall the storage matrices and connect all necessary cables.
  • Page 44 The blank is secured to the RLS with two captive screws, which can be reached by inserting a hand through the opening created with the left side storage matrix removed. This is the preferred and simpler option, however if the screws cannot be accessed through this opening the face of the user interface panel assembly can also be removed (step 15).
  • Page 45 Captive screw used to secure the top and bottom tabs. Storage Matrix Assembly Blank Figure 5-10 Captive screw shown securing the bottom tab of the Storage Matrix Assembly Blank Reaching into the RLS through the left side storage matrix opening, engage the two captive screw fasteners and turn them clockwise until they are fully tightened to hold the blank to the RLS.
  • Page 46 User Interface Panel Assembly Remove these 4 Screws Figure 5-11 Screws shown securing the face of the User Interface Panel Assembly Once all four screws are removed carefully pull the panel off from the user interface assembly and set aside. Now reach into the RLS through the opening below the touch screen and engage the two captive screw fasteners turning them clockwise until they are fully tightened to hold the blank to the RLS.

  • Page 47: Installing The Optional Fastpass Elevator Expansion Module

    5.2.4 Installing the Optional FastPass Elevator Expansion Module Up to four RLS-8560 and RLS-85120 libraries can be interconnected and a RLS-8350 library can be expanded by adding one RLS-8560 or RLS-85120 below it. The following instructions will describe installing a FastPass elevator expansion module with a RLS-85120 and a RLS-8560 however additional libraries can be interconnected by repeating the procedure.
  • Page 48 Figure 5-13 Park Rear Button on the Home Page Remove power from both of the libraries by first pressing the power switch off and then removing the power cord. FastPass elevator expansion modules are NOT hot-swappable. The libraries need to be slightly loosened in the mounting racks for the FastPass elevator expansion modules to align themselves.
  • Page 49 User Interface Panel Assembly Storage Matrix Assembly Blank Left Side Storage Matrix Removed Figure 5-14 Storage Matrix Assembly Blank on front of RLS with Left Side Storage Matrix Removed Two large tabs at the top and bottom of the Storage Matrix Assembly Blank have a single captive screw in each of them that secures it to the RLS.
  • Page 50 User Interface Panel Assembly Remove these 4 Screws Figure 5-15 Screws shown securing the face of the User Interface Panel Assembly Once all four screws are removed carefully pull the panel off from the user interface assembly and set aside. Now reaching into the RLS through the opening below the touch screen, engage the two captive screw fasteners and turn them counter clockwise until they are fully loosened.
  • Page 51 Upper Library Remove these 4 Torx or Phillips head screws. Remove these 4 Phillips head screws. Lower Library Figure 5-16 Screws shown securing the panels to the Upper and Lower Libraries When both panels have been removed, carefully slide the upper FastPass elevator expansion module into the upper library as shown in Figure 5-18.
  • Page 52 Elevator Mechanism in Upper Elevator Expansion Module It’s upward position. Figure 5-18 Sliding the Upper Elevator Expansion Module into the Upper Library Carefully slide the lower elevator expansion module into the lower library as shown in Figure 5-19. Lower elevator expansion module Figure 5-19 Sliding the Lower Elevator Expansion Module into the Upper Library Installation 5-17...
  • Page 53 Figure 5-31. Note that the cable provides both power and data transfer and can only be acquired from Qualstar. If a new cable is required please contact technical support and request P/N 667- 0601-1.
  • Page 54 LED on upper elevator expansion module Elevator module cable Figure 5-21 The Elevator Module Cable and LED on Upper Module There is a small LED light on the upper elevator expansion module where green indicates that power and data connectivity are good between the upper and lower modules.
  • Page 55 Figure 5-22 Calibration Needed Message on Bottom of Home Page Screen To perform the calibration procedure the Private page must be accessed and it is a privileged, password-protected page. This means that a password must be set to gain access to the items in the Private page. The libraries Security Identity passwords are entered on the Configuration/Library/Identification and Security screen.
  • Page 56 Figure 5-24 Screen for entering passwords Type in the word Update as the password to access the Private screen menu to configure the library. Please note that only the first letter is capitalized. Note that changes to the screen will not be saved until the Done button is pressed.
  • Page 57 Figure 5-26 The Calibration Screen Before starting calibration the handler and storage array magazine rows five and six must be emptied of any tape cartridges in each library. Press the Calibrate button to begin the calibration process, which may take several minutes to complete.
  • Page 58 Figure 5-27 Security ID on the Home Screen Pressing the Ok button will set the Security Identity to its default, which is None and the Security ID: will disappear from the Home Screen. The alternate procedure is to return to the Configuration/Library/Identification and Security screen then press the Edit button as was done when originally entering the Update password.

  • Page 59: Removing The Optional Fastpass Elevator Expansion Module

    5.2.5 Removing the Optional FastPass Elevator Expansion Module The following instructions will describe removing a FastPass elevator expansion module between two libraries, however additional libraries can be disconnected by repeating the procedure. If the libraries are powered up, press the Park Rear button on the Park Handler section of the libraries Home Page to move the handler to the rear of the library.
  • Page 60 Elevator Mechanism in It’s upward position. Figure 5-28 The Elevator Mechanism in its Upper Position Carefully slide the upper elevator expansion unit out from the lower library. At this point new upper and lower elevator modules may be installed, or the panels originally on the libraries may be installed.

  • Page 61: Removing The Library From The Rack

    5.2.6 Removing the Library from the Rack DANGER THE RLS WEIGHS UP TO 174 LBS (79 KG) ), INCLUDING STORAGE MATRICES AND TAPE DRIVES AND A MINIMUM OF TWO PEOPLE ARE NEEDED TO LIFT IT. HANDLING THE RLS ALONE COULD RESULT IN BACK INJURY OR OTHER ACCIDENTS.
  • Page 62 User Interface Panel Assembly Storage Matrix Assembly Blank Left Side Storage Matrix Removed Figure 5-30 Storage Matrix Assembly Blank on front of RLS with Left Side Storage Matrix Removed Two large tabs at the top and bottom of the Storage Matrix Assembly Blank have a single captive screw in each of them that secures it to the RLS.
  • Page 63 User Interface Panel Assembly Remove these 4 Screws Figure 5-31 Screws shown securing the face of the User Interface Panel Assembly Once all four screws are removed carefully pull the panel off from the user interface assembly and set aside. Now reaching into the RLS through the opening below the touch screen, engage the two captive screw fasteners and turn them counter clockwise until they are fully loosened.
  • Page 64 The front hand holds must be installed on the library before it can be slid all the way out of the rack. Please contact Qualstar Technical Support for a replacement set if the front hand holds that originally shipped with the RLS cannot be located.
  • Page 65 Install these 2 Screws to secure a Hand Hold Front Hand Hold Figure 5-33 Installing the Front Hand Holds on the Library With the front hand holds installed, have two or more people slide the library out of the rack and lift the library by grabbing the front and rear hand holds as seen in Figure 5-34.

  • Page 66: Quick Check

    You need only connect to the SAS or Fibre Channel drives. 5.4.1 xternal Cable Requirements For SAS, Qualstar and the drive man ufacturer, IBM, recommend a 6Gb HBA with external SFF-8088 SAS connection(s ). Each external connector can fan out to up to four (4) drives.

  • Page 67: Cable Connection Examples

    5.4.2 Cable Connection Examples Figure 5-35 shows some of the possible connection schemes. Fibre Cables to Switch or Host LTO FC Tape Drives SAS Cables to Switch or Host LTO SAS Tape Drives Figure 5-35 Connection Examples (RLS-85XX shown) 5-32 Installation 511000 Rev.

  • Page 68: Tape Drive Installation

    Tape Drive Installation All tape drives used in the RLS are factory installed in a plug-in drive carrier assembly. This assembly is pre-tested and ready to plug into the RLS drive bay. RLS units are normally shipped with the drive carrier assemblies installed and ready to run.

  • Page 69: Drive Fillers

    RLS if it was ordered without a full compliment of tape drives. Please contact Qualstar Technical Support if additional drive fillers are required. To install a drive filler in an empty drive bay, simply slide it into the drive bay and secure it with the two thumbscrew fasteners.

  • Page 70: Installing Media

    The choice of media for use in the RLS is important. Only media approved by the tape drive manufacturer and Qualstar should be used in the RLS. Non-approved media can cause numerous hidden problems that aren’t readily apparent. Media sold by Qualstar is certainly approved for use in the RLS.

  • Page 71: Loading A Storage Matrix With Tape Cartridges

    Tape Cartridge Write Enable/Protect Tab Window Tape Cartridge (shown unlocked) LTO cartridges are write protected when the Enable/Protect tab is moved to the right. Cartridges will show a “locked” symbol on the face of the tab. Figure 5-37 LTO Media Write Protect Tab 5.7.4 Loading a Storage Matrix with Tape Cartridges Storage matrices may be loaded prior to or after installation in the RLS.

  • Page 72: Bulk Loading Media In Storage Matrices

    NOTE Improperly installed tape cartridges will not fully seat in the slots and may prevent installation of the storage matrix in the library. 5.7.5 Bulk Loading Media in Storage Matrices Cartridges are easily installed and removed without the use of tools. Note that matrices are key locked only and the library cannot prevent a user with a key from opening them.
  • Page 73 Folded up for removal. Folded down for replacement. Figure 5-40 Storage Matrix Top Handle CAUTION A storage matrix may be heavy when loaded with tapes and caution should be taken to securely grasp the top handle when removing it or inserting it into the library.

  • Page 74: Checking The Rls Configuration

    SAS and fibre channel are both point-to-point connection schemes that use the WWN to identify each device. To identifying which drive is in which library position in Windows systems, please use the following commands, which are part of the QuickConf package, available from Qualstar Technical Support. (to determine [id],[lun],[host]) scanscsi *,*,*...

  • Page 75: The Operator Interface

    The Operator Interface The library’s functions can be controlled through the control panel. Manually operated I/O ports slide out from the front panel, and can be electronically locked. Bulk loading can be accomplished by removing the right or left storage matrix. Figure 6-1 shows the various features of the front panel.

  • Page 76: Control Panel

    Left Side Storage Matrix Right Side Storage Matrix Figure 6-2 Key Lock Positions Control Panel The control panel is a color LCD with a touch screen overlay. The operator may use the control panel menus to configure and operate the RLS and monitor its status. It can also be used to add or remove cartridges.
  • Page 77 See Figure 6-4. Note that the Private page is password-protected for the protected service pages and will not appear unless the appropriate Qualstar password has been entered. It is intended only for use by field service personnel.
  • Page 78 Figure 6-5 Operation Page Sub-pages When there are additional tables or pages to be displayed in the main field of a page a set of up and down arrow buttons will be shown. See Figure 6-6. Pressing either of these arrows will allow for scrolling through the pages. Figure 6-6 Up and Down Arrow Buttons When libraries are interconnected by the FastPass elevator expansion option, some of the menus will change slightly to represent the individual libraries and/or the...
  • Page 79 of five. The maximum number of partitions is equal to the maximum number of tape drives. Figure 6-7 Menu examples from Libraries with the FastPass Elevator Expansion Option As shown in Figure 6-8 the graphics on the left show the inventory view of the first of two attached library cabinets.
  • Page 80 Library Cabinet 1 view Library Cabinet 2 view Global View combining Library Cabinet 1 & Library Cabinet 2 Figure 6-8 Additional menu examples from Libraries with the FastPass Elevator Expansion Option The Operator Interface 511000 Rev. F...

  • Page 81: Home Page

    FastPass elevator expansion option. • The current Security Id level (indicates which Qualstar password controlled level has been entered into the library). Under normal operation, this is not present, to indicate that no password has been entered.

  • Page 82: Table View 7

    RLS-85XX can have up to five partitions while a RLS-8350 can have up to three. When the FastPass elevator expansion option is used, up to four RLS-85XX libraries can be interconnected for a total of up to 20 potential partitions.
  • Page 83 During typical day-to-day library operation, no human intervention is required to operate the tape drives in the RLS. Instead, the tape drives are controlled by the software applications. Although the tape drives are typically controlled by the software, you may occasionally want to view information about their status using the tape drives screen.

  • Page 84: The I/O Ports Screen

    7.1.2 The I/O Ports Screen Partition 1 incorporates this I/O Port Figure 7-4 An I/O Ports Screen from Libraries using the FastPass Elevator Expansion Option The I/O Ports screen shows a graphic representation of every I/O port in the library. A single library would have a maximum of two ports (one of the left and one on the right).

  • Page 85: Changer Status

    • Touching the Park Rear or Park Front buttons commands the handler (the robotics that handle the tape cartridges) to park itself at either the front or rear of the library • Touching the interior lighting button turns the lights that illuminate the inside of the library on or off 7.1.4 Changer Status...

  • Page 86: Resource Management

    Resource Management Introduction The physical resources of a RLS tape library may be sub-divided for multiple purposes by allocating tape drives, I/O ports and storage locations to specific partitions. The Handler (the libraries robotics) is a shared resource that cannot be dedicated to any single task.

  • Page 87: Default Element Addresses

    8.1.2 Default Element Addresses Element Addresses are initially assigned by the RLS in sequential order to each type of location. During address assignments, all locations within a sequence are always considered present, even if they are not physically present, e.g. a tape drive is not installed. Element Type Physical Location Default Element...
  • Page 88 Physical Addresses Right Side I/O Ports Tape Drives Left Side I/O Ports Left Side Right Side Storage Matrix Storage Matrix Handler SCSI Element Addresses Right Side Left Side I/O Ports Tape Drives I/O Ports Left Side Right Side Handler Storage Matrix Storage Matrix Figure 8-1 Physical Location and Default SCSI Element Addresses for a single RLS-85XX Resource Management...

  • Page 89: Inventory Validation

    Up to five of these library partitions are available in a single RLS-85XX while an RLS-8350 can have up to three. When the FastPass elevator expansion option is used, up to four RLS-85XX libraries can be interconnected for a total of up to 20 potential partitions.

  • Page 90: Sequential Operations

    The standard number of cartridge slots is 54 when the library only has the left side storage matrix. The RLS-8350 library supports up to three tape drives and 50 cartridges with the right side storage matrix. The standard number of cartridge slots is 22 when the library only has the left side storage matrix.
  • Page 91 create partitions and reduce the chances that you will need to edit the logical library definitions later on. Option Total Log. Lib. Log. Lib. Log. Lib. Log. Lib. available for use Name Partition 1 Partition 2 Partition 3 Partition 4 Number of slots Number of I/O ports Number of tape drives...

  • Page 92: Configuration Page

    Configuration Page Figure 9-1 The Configuration Page The Configuration page is used to customize the operation of the RLS libraries to meet the system requirements. The Configuration page consists of several sub-pages, some affecting the unit's interaction with the SCSI system, and others affecting the unit's interaction with the user.

  • Page 93: Configuration/Library/Log Screen

    The library maintains a log that consists of a list of internal events. This screen determines which events are logged. The purpose of the log is to assist in testing and isolating problems with the assistance of Qualstar support personnel. Each item in the Executive and Control Panel Logs have two choices: Logging of the individual menu item enabled.
  • Page 94 Section Field Description Option ADT Ack ADT (Admission Discharge and Transfer) On or Off (Acknowledgements) communications Executive CAN (Controller Area Network) On or Off communications Changer Action Actions requested of changer On or Off Changer Activity Actions performed by changer On or Off Changer Autonomous Autonomous changer processes...

  • Page 95: Configuration/Library/Network Screen

    Section Field Description Option Network Configuration Ethernet Mac Addr. Displays the unique Qualstar Variable Mac (media access control) value when communicating in a network environment. Allows the library to On or Off communicate via FTP (File Transfer Protocol).
  • Page 96 Section Field Description Option Enable Allows the library to On or Off communicate via Ethernet. Address This value is the library’s Variable current IP address. When the DHCP Enable value is set to On, this value is supplied by a DHCP server.

  • Page 97: Configuration/Library/Network User Screens

    9.1.3 Configuration/Library/Network User Screens Figure 9-4 The Configuration/Library/Network User Screens Configuration Page 511000 Rev. F...

  • Page 98: Configuration/Library/Io Port, Barcode And Power On Policy Screen

    The Configuration/Library/Network User screens allow for the setting of pass codes for individual network users. Information on these screens may be edited by pressing the Edit button. Note that changes to the screen will not be saved until the Save button is pressed.
  • Page 99 Section Field Description Option IO Port Open Prevention Ignored – the library’s open I/O port command will Ignored, operate regardless of the prevent state. Operator Only – the operator cannot open the I/O Operator port, unless allowed by every initiator. Only, Operator and SCSI –...

  • Page 100: Configuration/Library/Identification And Security Screen

    9.1.5 Configuration/Library/Identification and Security Screen Figure 9-6 Configuration/Library/Identification and Security Screen The Configuration/Library/Identification and Security screen contains unique serial numbers specific to the library as well as optional user supplied data fields to identify the library. This screen also contains the area for entering passwords to allow for access to different controlled security levels of the library for maintenance, upgrades and diagnosis.

  • Page 101: Configuration/Partition Page

    Section Field Description Option Security Identity Identity Shipped from the factory the library will have None as its security identity. Password Allows for the entering of passwords that provide access to controlled security levels of the library for maintenance, upgrades and diagnosis. Table 9-4 Configuration/Library/Identification and Security Screen Information Configuration/Partition Page The Configuration/Partition page for a single RLS consists of three pages for an RLS-...
  • Page 102 The Configuration/Partition screens allow for a single library to be divided into as many as five logical library partitions for an RLS-85XX or three for an RLS-8350. Each partitions tape drive(s) can be assigned to function in either Library format or one of the three Sequential formats.

  • Page 103: Encryption Key Digest

    Field Option Description Manual If a cartridge is in the tape drive at power-on, the library stops and waits for the operator to either manually eject the cartridge or call upon the host system to eject it. After the cartridge is ejected it must be moved back to the location it came from.
  • Page 104 Figure 9-8 Configuration/Partition Screen ready to edit Press the Encryption Key Digest text and it will bring up the following screen. Figure 9-9 Warning screen for adding an encryption key Configuration Page 9-13 511000 Rev. F...
  • Page 105 Press the Proceed button to advance to the screen which allows the encryption key to be entered. The data may be entered in either hex characters or Base64 character set. The two screens can we alternated by pressing the Base64 or Hex button on the screen.
  • Page 106 As a default all characters except the current one being entered on the screen will be represented by an *, but all the characters can be shown by pressing the View button. Pressing the Hide button will return to the asterisk view. Hide View Figure 9-11 The Hide and View modes...
  • Page 107 key digests are different, there is a typo somewhere that needs to be corrected before proceeding. Figure 9-13 Example of Matching Key Digests Press the Save button to proceed to the next screen. Figure 9-14 Warning screen for adding an encryption key Press the Proceed button to advance to the screen which allows the encryption key to be saved.
  • Page 108 Take note of the key digest and press the Save button to enter the encryption key data into the library. ure 9-15 Press Save to save the Encryption Key To change the encryption key simply repeat Steps 1 thru 9 using different characters for the encryption key data.

  • Page 109: Configuration/Partition Items Page

    Configuration/Partition Items P The Configuration/Partition Items page allows for logical library partition items to be assigned simply by selecting the available elements displ ayed on the screen. Note that the Configuration Screen displays what resources are possible, not what is currently installed.

  • Page 110: Configuration/Drive Page

    Drive page consists of multiple pages (up to five of these in a single RLS-85XX while an RLS-8350 can have up to three.) When the FastPass elevator expansion option is used, up to four RLS-85XX libraries can be interconnected for a total of up to 20 potential drive configuration pages.
  • Page 111 Enable – The drive is enabled as a logical unit 1 device. Qualstar WWPN Yes or No The Qualstar WWPN (world wide port name) for the tape drive will be reported to the host system. Table 9-6 Drive Configuration Screen Information...

  • Page 112: Configuration/Drive Cleaning Items Page

    Configuration/Drive Cleaning Items Page The Configuration/Drive Cleaning Items page allows for tape drive cleaning cartridges to be assigned to storage locations anywhere within the left or right storage matrices. The cartridge locations may be viewed by either their physical addresses or which partition they are currently assigned to by touching the view button.

  • Page 113: Configuration/Set To Defaults Page

    Configuration/Set To Defaults Page The Configuration/Set To Defaults page contains a single Set Defaults button that resets most items in the Configuration menu having a default value to their factory default settings. Default values, if any exist, are given in the individual descriptions for each menu item.

  • Page 114: The Operation Page

    Operation Page Figure 10-1 The Operation Page The Operation page provides the operator with the commands needed to use the library. It contains commands to: move cartridges, load or unload tape drives, clea tape drives and position th e handler. It also provides Quick Operation buttons to allow for the I/O ports to be quickly opened and closed and the handler to be parked.
  • Page 115 Figure 10-2 The Operation Pages from two libraries using the FastPass Elevator Expansion Option 10-2 Configuration Page 511000 Rev. F...
  • Page 116 Each of the possible partitions may be viewed by touching the partition button (up to five partitions in a single RLS-85XX while an RLS-8350 can have up to three.) When the FastPass elevator expansion option is used, up to four RLS-85XX libraries can be interconnected for a total of up to 20 potential partitions.

  • Page 117: Operation/Drive Page

    Figure 1 0-5 View by Address, Partition or Physical options 10.1 Operation/Drive Page The Operation/Drive page allows for tape drives to be loaded, unloaded and cleaned. Select an available tape drive by touching its element (T1 – 4T5) on the screen to determine its status.

  • Page 118: Operation/Element Status Page

    Status command. Th e SCSI-2 Read Element Status command is described in the RLS SCSI-2 Interface Reference (Qualstar document 501551). Please refer to this document for a detailed explanation of all the element status values displayed. Configuration Page 10-5...
  • Page 119 The number of the partition where the element is assigned. Depending on how the resources are allocated a single RLS-85XX can ha ve up to five partitions while a RLS-8350 can have up to three. When th e elevator expansion option is used, up to four RLS-85XX libraries can be interconnected for a total of up to 20 potential partitions.

  • Page 120: Operation/Move Cartridge Page

    Operation/Move Cartridge Page The Opera tion/Move rtridge page allows for moving cartridges from one cartridge slot to another. Select an availa ble tape cartridge by touching its element on the screen and its physical location and sl ot type will appear in the Move From box. For the Move To selection touch an elem ent that is currently empty and the n its physical location and...

  • Page 121: Operation/Sequential Operations Page

    Figure 10-9 The Operation/Position Handler Page 10.5 Operation/Sequential Operations Page The O peration/Seque ial Operations page only appears if at least one tape drive is configured for the Sequ ential, Recycle or Dual Bin modes. For Sequential and Recycle operation the starting p oint may be designated by selecting any element in a partition that has a tape cartridg e in it.

  • Page 122: Operation/Quick Operation Page

    Figure 10-10 The Operation/Sequential Operations Page 10.6 Operation/Quick Operation Page The Operation/Quick Operation page allows for the I/O ports to be quickly opened and closed and the handler to be parked. • Touching the Open IO Port Left or Open IO Port Right buttons commands the individual I/O ports to open.
  • Page 123 Figure 10-11 The Operation/Quick Operation Page 10-10 Configuration Page 511000 Rev. F...

  • Page 124: Sequential Operation

    Sequential Operation 11.1 Introduction A sequential tape drive looks to the host computer as a singular tape drive with an operator supplying it with tapes. A host backup application which is not aware of ta libraries can simply write its backup data to the drive until the tape becomes filled. It then causes the tape to be rewound and ejected from the drive.

  • Page 125: Configuration/Partition Page

    storage location. In Recycle operations, the handler will return to the starting position and repeat the cartridge movement cycle indefinitely. When a Dual Bin operation is interactively started (via the menu system), the changer moves the cartridge found at (or after) the initial specified storage location in the input set into the drive.

  • Page 126: Type

    the Configuration page. To uch the Edit button to allow the Mode to be selected and the following choices will a ppear as seen in Figure 11-2. Sequential Modes Figure 11-2 Partition 1 Mode Choices 11.2.1 Each partition in the RLS wi ll be in one of five modes: None, Library, Sequential, Recycle or Dual Bin.

  • Page 127: Sequential Or Recycle Configuration Example

    Sequential The tape drive allocated to this partition is dedicated to receiving cartridges under cha nger control. The changer will not perform host-requested cartridge movements this device. 11.2.2 Sequential or Recycl e Configuration Example In the following example partition 2 has been configured to contain a single drive (T1), two slots from the left side I/O port (ld01, ld02) and a column of magazine sl ots (LD01 to LD15).

  • Page 128: Start

    options; white for unassigned, green for source element and yellow for destination element. Figure 11-4 Dual Bin Configuration Exa mple NOTE The amount of destination slots must be set equal to or greater than the source slots for Dua l Bin operation.

  • Page 129: Interruptions

    Inventory If a cartridge is in the tape drive at power-on or after an inventory violation, the previous input and output slots a invalidated. If after the library completes an inventory sc and finds the input and output slots are both valid, the library attempts to continue from where it left off.

  • Page 130: Preventive Maintenance

    Preventive Maintenance This chapter describes the things that can be done to keep the RLS running reliabl DANGER TO AVOID THE POSSIBILITY OF PERSONAL INJURY, BE SURE TO TURN OFF THE RLS’S POWER AND DISCONNECT THE POWER CORD BEFORE DOING ANY WORK INSIDE THE CABINET.

  • Page 131: Cleaning The Tape Drives

    Visually inspect the air filter element in the front of each storage matrix (Figure 12-2 and Figure 12-3). New air filters in RLS-85XX librari es are green and the filters in RLS-8350 models are black. A color change indicates the presence of some dirt, which is acceptable. However, if dirt is c linging to the outside filter surface, it is time to replace the filter.

  • Page 132: Replacing The Air Filter

    Replace the air filter with a new one (Qualstar P/N 500584-01-6). If an old air filter is not yet dirty enough to be replaced and is being reinstalled, make sure...

  • Page 133: Replacing An Air Filter In A Rls-8350 Library

    Grasp the air filter and pull it free from the lips securing it to the front of the storage matrix. Replace the air filter with a new one (Qualstar P/N 510787-01-3). If an old air filter is not yet dirty enough to be replaced and is being reinstalled, make sure that the side that was facing the inside of the library is placed in the same direction as it was when it was removed.

  • Page 134: Cartridges

    12.5 Cartridges Cartridges should be replaced when their door mechanism breaks. This requires transferring the data to another cartridge and applying a new (and probable different) barcode label to the cartridge. Caution must be exercised to prevent a loss of data. Clean with a dry, lint free cloth if dust has accumulated in the recesses of the gripping area or on the rear sides of the cartridges.

  • Page 135: Repacking

    Repacking This chapter explains how to properly repack the RLS for shipping. DANGER DEPENDING UPON THE MODEL, THE RLS WEIGHS OVER 174 POUNDS (79 Kg), EXCLUDING MAGAZINES AND CARTRIDGE DRIVES. IMPROPER LIFTING TECHNIQUES CAN RESULT IN BACK INJURY AND/OR EQUIPMENT DAMAGE. GET HELP WHEN LIFTING OR MOVING THE RLS.

  • Page 136: Repacking The Rls

    RLS, use the original shipping container and packing materials. If the original hipping container and packing materials are not available, order a new shipping container by calling Qualstar Technical Support. CAUTION Remove cartridges before proceeding. To prevent damage, do not ship the RLS with cartridges installed.
  • Page 137 ipping Carton Foam Rear Hand Hold Front Hand H olds Inst all these 2 thumbscrews Pallet Install these 2 thumbscrews Figure 13-1 Repacking the RLS (RLS-85120 shown) Repacking 13-3 511000 Rev. F...

  • Page 138: Glossary

    An elevator expansion option that passes tapes from unit to unit easily allowing expanded capacity and data delivery performance. Up to four RLS-85XX libra ries can be interconnected or a single RLS-8350 may be connected to a n RLS-8560 or R 85120 library.
  • Page 139 Internet Protocol – The data transport protocol used b y the Internet. Java Script Java script used in web pages that is interpreted by the user's browser. Java Virtual A program that interprets Java script. Machine Location A Location Designator contains alphanumeric characters used to describe any physical Designator tape storage location within the RLS.
  • Page 140 Subset The mask used on a LAN to determine if a packet is desti ned for another site on the Mask LAN or outbound for the Internet. Tape Cartridges are magnetic tape media used to store data. Tape Cartridges, Cartridge including data and cleaning cartridges, may be placed in any of the physical locations.

This manual is also suitable for:

Rls-85 series

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